Traveler's Information

Umhlanga Tourism Information Centre
Tel : (031) 561 4257
Fax : (031) 561 6943
Email : info@umhlanga-rocks.co.za   

Durban Africa
Tel : (031) 304 4934
www.durbanexperience.co.za   

Tourism KZN
Tel : (031) 366 7500
www.zulu.org.za   

BANKS

All major South African Banks and Building Societies have branches in the main towns.  Banking hours are (Monday to Friday) 09h00 - 15h30 and (Saturdays) 08h30 - 11h00.  Automated teller machines (ATMs) operate 24/7 hours and can be found in most shopping centres.

Foreign Exchange

Traveler's cheques and foreign currency notes of all major currencies can be exchanged at any commercial bank.  American Express offices and most hotels have exchange facilities.

Credit Cards

Most department stores, shops, hotels and restaurants accept international credit cards i.e. American Express, VISA, Diners Club, MasterCard.  Please note that petrol may not be purchased on credit cards in South Africa.

Value Added Tax

14% Tax is charged on purchased goods and services.  Foreign tourists can have their sales tax (VAT) refunded at a port of exit, provided the purchase exceeds R250.  To qualify, visitors must have a valid foreign passport, the necessary tax invoices and the goods.  The relevant office is in the International departures section at Durban International Airport.  VAT for restaurant, accommodation or car hire will not be refunded.

CONSULATES AND EMBASSIES IN DURBAN

LOCAL MUNICIPAL OFFICES

Umhlanga Municipal Office Tel : (031) 561 1101

TELECOMMUNICATIONS

South Africa has a sophisticated telecommunications network.  International dialing and full telex, telefax, and electronic mail facilities are available.  There is full cellphone coverage in the Umhlanga area, and handsets are available for hire in the main shopping centres.  Local SIM cards may be bought at retail outlets.

TRANSPORT

Durban International Airport receives direct flights from various international destinations as well as domestic services, including Kulula.com, Nationwide, SAA and British Airways.  Intercity coaches and trains are reasonably priced and depart daily for various destinations.  The Mynah Bus is a reliable local bus service that plies passengers around Durban and the suburbs.  There is a regular bus service between Durban and Umhlanga. 
Tel : (031) 309 5942/3, or Umhlanga Tourism (031) 561 4257/6943.

EMERGENCY NUMBERS

Please make use of www.safe.kzn.org.za, part of a comprehensive KZN tourism safety initiative.